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For Sale: "Finca El Cielo" not too far above Antigua, Guatemala

The property for sale is unique in all the world. Sky Farm is a very special place of refuge in San Jose Calderas high above the Panchoy Valley to the southwest. It is situated in a large “calderon” on the skirts of the volcano Acatenango at the continental divide over Guatemala’s west coast. Elevation at the farm is 6,200 feet at its lowest, rising dramatically 250 feet to trace the “cumbre” or continental crest of Guatemala. This site makes for big-sky weather shows.    

The farm  is in the corner of a high bowl-shaped valley facing due east. Splendid morning sunrises and views of more than 20 miles are common. The broad expanse of open vista is exceptionally beautiful, a daily celestial experience  that is soul-inspiring. 

One thousand feet below in the valley lies La Antigua, old capital and ancient cultural center of all of Centro America. Its lovely lights can be seen from the farm 25 minutes away. Excursions depart from nearby Rosario to explore the long dormant Acatenango’s crater and to view volcano “El Fuego” some three kilometers away from the summit.  

The farm has the good fortune of enjoying a unique and beautiful microclimate because of its unusual position at the top of a hanging amphi-theater valley above a great chimney gorge. Nights are often so clear that a simple telescope provides a great astronomical show. Average yearly daytime temperatures are about 70ºF with highs of 80ºF and lows of 50ºF. Low humidity is the norm except for the rainy season.

Sky Farm has been under American stewardship and management since its purchase in 1990. Its owners have dedicated the land to the preservation and extension of its natural systems. The farm is an ongoing effort to establish a self-sustainable permaculture. The land, once under perpetual cultivation prior to purchase, has been returned to native trees, grasses, and perennials.  

Elimination of toxic chemicals and chemical fertilizers has allowed the earth to return to its natural state of organic health. Initially native green manure cover crops were planted to stop soil erosion. After 30 years of soil replenishment this program has been very successful, yielding highly fertile ground.  

 Commitment to biodiversity has increased bird and mammal populations on “Sky Farm” over the past two decades. Of the 37 manzanas comprising the property, the upper 14 manzanas are heavily wooded. It forms an “island” of old cloud-forest habitat where established fauna is supported by unique flora systems. The biggest trees in the immediate area are on this property. Trees large enough for tree houses preside at the top.

Native herbs are collected on the property by several older Mayans of the nearby village who can provide valuable information regarding medical applications. More than 60 different birds are year-round residents and an great number pass migrating. Many predatory birds, including Harpy eagles as well as every known highland migratory hawk or owl of Central America have been seen on the farm.

            Best producing area crops are peaches, apricots, apples, pears, all vining berries, roses, carrots, legumes, and a large variety of dry perennial flowers. Native trees like alamo, cypress, and pine grow rapidly here. Hass avocado trees are growing very well in the area at even higher altitudes. 

            Water to the property is excellent, even of world-class tasting quality and available from two sources. The village’s captured spring provides gravity-fed residential water and a 300 foot deep well is under development for farm use.